How Will AI, Cybersecurity, and Sustainable Development Shape the Future of UP?

Kanpur, Sep 3 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, emphasized the crucial role of industry-academia collaboration in determining the technological trajectory of India during his address at IIT Kanpur's engagement initiative, 'Samanvay'.

In front of faculty, students, and industry experts, he articulated that the potential for cooperation between the industry and academic institutions now surpasses just research and innovation.

He stated, “It is directly linked to improving the standard of living of the common citizen, addressing global challenges, and achieving sustainable development.”

Yogi highlighted that discussions surrounding Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability would not only enhance India's self-reliance but also position the nation as a global nexus for technology and development.

He reminded attendees of India's rich economic legacy, mentioning that the country constituted nearly 25 percent of the world's GDP until the 17th century, but saw a drastic reduction to just 2 percent by 1947 due to colonial rule.

“In the last 11 years, we have witnessed India's resurgence. Today, it stands as the fourth-largest economy globally and is on track to become the third,”

he said, emphasizing the importance of constructing a developed and self-sufficient India.

The Chief Minister commended IIT Kanpur for its significant contributions over the past sixty years, particularly in emerging technologies like drone innovation.

Reflecting on the transformation of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi pointed out that the state's GDP contribution, which was 14 percent in 1947, had plummeted to 7-8 percent by 2017 due to neglect, lack of investment, and youth migration.

“UP was once labeled a sick state. However, in the last eight years, the landscape has changed dramatically. Today, UP ranks as the second-largest economy in India, fueled by enhanced security, investment, infrastructure, and governance. Notable progress has been made across every sector,”

he asserted.

Additionally, the Chief Minister highlighted UP's leading role in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that the state assembly was the first in India to hold a 36-hour special session dedicated to exploring strategies for achieving these goals.

Using Bundelkhand as a case study, he remarked that the previously drought-affected and migration-prone region now boasts tap water in every home, irrigated fields, and investment in defense corridor nodes at Chitrakoot and Jhansi.

Discussing environmental advancements, Yogi mentioned that the Forest Research Institute has recognized a rise in UP's forest cover, highlighting the state’s dedication to sustainability.

Addressing cyber threats, he identified cybersecurity as a significant challenge, stating, “In 2017, Uttar Pradesh had only two inactive cyber police stations. Today, every district has one, with 1,500 police stations housing cyber desks and the establishment of a State Cyber and Forensic Institute. Nevertheless, a lot more needs to be accomplished. We are eager to collaborate closely with IIT Kanpur in this domain.”